The course is concerned with the history of Western architecture, with emphasis placed on a tradition in design that extends from antiquity to the nineteenth century. Lectures will introduce students to the classical principles of order, symmetry, proportion, composition, economy and decorum. Discussions of these highlight specific topics, which include anthropomorphism, empathy, memory, the site and ornament.
Rather than attempting to present a comprehensive survey of historical styles, lectures explore issues by focusing on particular designers, theorists and transitional moments. Such an approach is essential to an additional facet of the course, which is to address current beliefs and achievements. Assumptions about progress are acknowledged, as they have prevented the exploration of substantial relationships between a human being and a building.